Chevrolet Helps Put An End To Gang Violence

When Rob and Amy Castañeda first moved into the primarily Mexican neighborhood of Little Village, Chicago, they were surprised to learn that a local gang controlled the area.

Hoping to make the neighborhood safer for themselves and their family, Mr. Castañeda didn’t hesitate to report the gang to the police when he saw them commit a crime. Unfortunately, the gang found out and retaliated by attempting to burn down the Castañeda’s home—twice.

Against odds like that, most folks would pack up and leave but the Castañeda family dug in. Eventually the couple created a non-profit organization called Beyond the Ball, which teaches the values of “Community, Leadership, Perseverance, Responsibility, Respect and Teamwork” to youth through sports and group activities.

Recently, Chevrolet got involved with the innovative community development organization by donating a large pop-up street soccer arena along with a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and trailer. The Silverado, which starts at $25K, was named the 2014 Truck of the Year at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Gary Bailey, a former goalkeeper for Manchester United, was also on hand to play with the children and teach them a bit about soccer.